It is no secret that the mattress plays a huge role in comfortable and healthy rest of the body during sleep. And whatever you are advised by consultants in stores, reviews on the trading platforms of online stores, you can appreciate all the advantages and disadvantages of a mattress only after sleeping on it for a few nights.
So, what to be guided by when choosing a mattress?
The selection criteria are usually very individual, and choosing on the principle of “more expensive means better” is not very reasonable. To begin, ask yourself simple questions:
Will you sleep on this mattress alone or together?
What weight should the mattress count on?
Are there any specific doctor’s recommendations?
How much money do you have to buy?
Where will the mattress be located: in what room and what are the dimensions of the furniture for it?
Mattress length and width
It is not necessary to measure the bed in order to choose the optimal size of the mattress. The main thing is that its length and width correspond to your dimensions. The length of the mattress should be at least 20 cm longer than the length of your body. And to determine the appropriate width, lie on your back, fold your arms in a lock on your chest and move your elbows to the sides: the distance between the elbows corresponds to the minimum width of the bed for you. However, most companies produce standard size mattresses, so your own measurements will only come in handy at the beginning. Below are dimensional grids of mattresses according to European and American standards.
European mattress standards
Mattresses for cots: 120х60 cm
Single mattresses: 190×80 cm
Double mattresses: 190×160 cm
American standards
Twin: 99×190 cm
Twin X-Long – elongated model: 99×203.2 cm
Double – standard double mattress: 137.2×190 cm
Queen: 152.4×203.2 cm
Standard King: 193×203.2 cm
Western King – a truly royal size: 182.9×213.36 cm
Mattress height
Usually American standards mean a high height of the mattress, which is immediately obvious. But in general, the height of a normal mattress varies between 6-40 cm. A model with a height of less than 6 cm is already a mattress pad. High mattresses look great in a bedroom made in a classic or retro style, and the elderly are easier and safer to get up from them. However, for modern bedrooms, for example, in the style of loft or minimalism, we advise you to choose mattresses of small height. It is also the best option for a low bed in oriental style.
Mattress stiffness
The heavier a person is, the stiffer the mattress should be. But a person with a small weight will not be able to push hard enough mattress, which can cause back problems. Mattresses of the increased rigidity without springs will be suitable to people weighing more than 100 kg. Medium stiffness – for weight 65-100 kg, well, soft mattresses – for people weighing less than 65 kg.
Children’s mattresses are evaluated by other criteria. Infants should sleep on flat, firm mattresses, and safety plays a leading role here: lying on your stomach, the child will not suffocate. It is better for children under 12 to choose models of medium hardness with a latex or coconut coir filler. You can also take a spring mattress, but if your child likes to jump on the bed, then this mattress will last you only about 2 years. Between the ages of 12 and 25, it is recommended to sleep on a firm mattress to maintain proper posture. But people over 50 should choose models of medium softness without springs to avoid circulatory problems.
